Masters of Social work programme offers an opportunity to learners for higher studies in professional social work. It includes general Awareness in some of the emerging areas in social work such as globalization and migration. The IGNOU MSW Project (MSWP 001) is an important academic requirement for learners of the Master of Social Work (MSW) programme at the Indira Gandhi National Open University. The project helps learners connect theory with real field situations. It also allows them to demonstrate research skills, analyse social issues, and propose practical solutions based on evidence.
This article provides a complete and clear guide to preparing the IGNOU MSW Project for MSWP-001. It discusses the purpose of the project, the step-by-step process for preparing the proposal and report, the approved structure, topic ideas, formatting rules, data collection methods, evaluation criteria and best practices. The goal is to support learners in writing a well-organised and academically strong project that meets IGNOU standards.
What Is MSWP 001 in IGNOU?
MSWP 001 is the project component of the MSW course. Every MSW learner must submit a project report to fulfil the programme requirements. Through this course, learners apply social work theories, methods and principles to real issues in communities, organisations or institutions.
The project involves selecting a topic, preparing a proposal (synopsis), collecting data, analysing findings, and writing a final report. It is completed under the guidance of an approved supervisor.
Objectives of the IGNOU MSW Project (MSWP-001)
The project aims to strengthen practical research skills. The major objectives include:
- To help learners identify and study real social issues.
- To apply social work theories and intervention models in field situations.
- To build skills in research design, data collection and analysis.
- To develop problem-solving abilities in community and institutional settings.
- To promote evidence-based social work practice.
- To improve writing and reporting skills for professional roles.
Qualities of a Good MSW Project
A strong IGNOU MSW project should demonstrate:
- Clarity of research problem
The issue must be well-defined, relevant and possible to study. - Logical structure
Chapters must be presented in proper order with smooth transitions. - Use of simple, clear language
The report should be academic but easy to understand. - Accurate data and analysis
Findings must be based on evidence from the field. - Ethical approach
Respondents’ privacy and dignity must be respected. - Practical suggestions
Recommendations must relate to the problem and field findings.
Choosing the Right Topic for MSWP 001
Topic selection is important for the success of the project. A good MSW project topic should be:
- Socially relevant
- Research-friendly
- Manageable in time
- Connected to your field experience
- Linked to social work values and practice
Popular Topic Areas for IGNOU MSWP-001
You may select topics in the following areas:
- Child Protection and Welfare
- Women’s Empowerment
- Health and Mental Health
- Substance Abuse and Rehabilitation
- Community Development
- Gender-based Violence
- Elder Care
- Disability Rights
- Domestic Violence and Family Issues
- Livelihood and Poverty Reduction
- Youth Development
- HIV/AIDS Awareness
- Migration and Urban Issues
Sample Project Topics for IGNOU MSW Students
- Study on the Impact of Alcohol Addiction on Family Life
- Challenges Faced by Single Mothers in Urban Slums
- Awareness of Mental Health Among College Students
- Problems of Elderly People in Old Age Homes
- Role of NGOs in Women Empowerment
- Behavioural Issues Among Adolescents in Schools
- Effectiveness of Self-Help Groups in Rural Development
- Stress and Coping among Frontline Health Workers

Image: Trending MSW Project Topics for MSWP-001
These topics are common, practical and easy to carry out within limited resources.
IGNOU MSWP 001 Project Proposal (Synopsis): Structure and Guidelines
Before writing the full MSW project report, learners must submit a proposal to IGNOU for approval. The proposal tells the university about your topic, objectives, design and methods.
Structure of the MSWP 001 Synopsis
- Title of the Study
- Introduction to the Problem
- Review of Related Literature
- Rationale of the Study
- Objectives of the Study
- Research Questions / Hypothesis
- Methodology
- Research Design
- Universe and Sampling
- Data Collection Tools
- Data Analysis Plan
- Limitations of the Study
- Ethical Considerations
- Schedule of Work
- References
- Brief Resume of the Supervisor
The proposal must follow IGNOU project guidelines and must be signed by both the learner and the supervisor.
Final Project Report Structure for IGNOU MSW (MSWP-001)
IGNOU follows a specific format for MSW project reports. The report generally contains around 80–120 pages, depending on the topic.
Chapters of the IGNOU MSW Project
1. Introduction
- Background of the problem
- Overview of the social issue
- National and local context
- Relevance to social work
2. Review of Literature
- Summary of studies related to the topic
- Key findings from previous research
- Gaps in literature
3. Research Methodology
- Research design
- Universe and sample size
- Data collection tools
- Techniques of data analysis
- Ethical considerations
4. Data Analysis and Interpretation
- Presentation of responses
- Tables and charts (if required)
- Interpretation of findings
- Linking findings to objectives
5. Key Findings
- Major results
- Trends observed
- Connections to the field reality
6. Suggestions and Recommendations
- Practical actions for agencies, social workers and policymakers
- Interventions that may improve the situation
7. Conclusion
- Summary of the study
- Implications for social work practice
- Scope for future research
Annexures
- Questionnaire/Schedule
- Consent forms
- Fieldwork photos (if necessary)
- Supervisor certificate
- Declaration by student
Data Collection Methods for MSW Project
IGNOU encourages the use of simple and ethical tools. Common methods include:
1. Interview Method
- Individual interviews
- Group interviews
- Key informant interviews
2. Questionnaire / Schedule
- Structured or semi-structured
- Useful for large samples
3. Observation
- Participant
- Non-participant
4. Case Study Method
- In-depth study of one unit
- Good for sensitive issues
5. Focus Group Discussions
- Useful for community studies
Sampling Techniques
- Simple random sampling
- Purposive sampling
- Convenience sampling
Important Guidelines for Writing IGNOU MSW Project MSWP-001
Follow Academic Language
Use clear, formal and simple sentences. Avoid personal opinions. Support claims with evidence.
Maintain Ethical Standards
- Seek consent
- Protect privacy
- Avoid sensitive questions
Avoid Plagiarism
Write in original language. Summarise and paraphrase sources.
Use Proper Formatting
- A4 size pages
- 1.5 line spacing
- Times New Roman font
- Clear headings and subheadings
Follow Word Limits
Follow IGNOU’s project format and expected length.
Use Tables and Charts
Use only when necessary to present data.
Attach Required Certificates
Include the MSW supervisor certificate, declaration and consent forms.
Role of the Supervisor in MSWP 001
A supervisor guides the learner throughout the MSW project. Approved supervisors include:
- MSW teachers
- Social work professionals with relevant experience
- Fieldworkers from recognised organisations
The supervisor helps in:
- Topic selection
- Proposal development
- Research design
- Data collection tools
- Draft reviews
- Final approval and certification
Evaluation Criteria for IGNOU MSW Project
Evaluators examine the MSW report based on:
- Relevance of the topic
- Clear objectives
- Strength of methodology
- Quality of data and analysis
- Structure and organisation of chapters
- Originality
- Ethical approach
- Practical recommendations
- Language and presentation
A well-structured and carefully written project has high chances of scoring well.
Must Read: Check Your IGNOU Project Status: A Complete Guide
Tips to Score High in MSWP 001
- Select a topic linked to your field experience in social work.
- Begin early to avoid delays.
- Keep neat and well-formatted chapters.
- Present data clearly and logically.
- Use simple vocabulary for readability.
- Add strong practical suggestions.
- Proofread to remove errors.
- Follow IGNOU guidelines closely.
FAQs: IGNOU MSW Project for MSWP-001
What is MSWP 001 in IGNOU MSW Programme?
MSWP 001 is the project work component of the IGNOU Master of Social Work programme. It involves research on a social issue under a supervisor.
Is the MSW project compulsory?
Yes. Submission of the project is mandatory to complete the MSW degree.
How many pages should the MSW project contain?
Most IGNOU MSW projects range between 80 and 120 pages, depending on the topic and data.
Can I choose any topic for the MSWP 1 project?
Yes, but the topic must be related to social work issues and approved by the supervisor.
Does IGNOU approve the MSWP-001 project synopsis?
Yes. The synopsis must be submitted for approval before the final project is written.
Who can be a supervisor for MSWP 001?
A qualified social work professional, faculty member or practitioner approved by IGNOU.
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Conclusion
The IGNOU MSW Project (MSWP-001) is an important academic exercise that helps learners apply social work theories to real social problems. A well-structured project not only demonstrates research skills but also strengthens professional competence. By selecting a relevant topic, following IGNOU guidelines, using ethical and simple research methods, and presenting findings clearly, learners can produce high-quality project reports that reflect genuine understanding of field realities.
This project is not just an academic requirement. It is also a strong foundation for professional social work practice, evidence-based interventions and community-centred development.
If you need help in topic selection, proposal drafting, or improving your project structure for IGNOU MSWP-001, you may request a customised outline or guidance. A well-prepared project helps you secure high marks and strengthens your professional skills in social work.
Would you like a complete project outline or a full MSWP-001 synopsis prepared for your chosen topic? WhatsApp Us Now!


sukrati
September 13, 2020MSW (Masters of Social Work) MSWP 001 is available in hindi
Mehjabeen
December 29, 2020hI, CAN I SUBMIT MY IGNOU PROJECT FIELDWORK IN THE PROJECT/THESIS FORMAT I AM FROM JULY 2016 BATCH. KINDLY HELP ME.
Suchitra sarkar
February 15, 2021May I get a sample copy of synopsis mswp001. My intested area of project work is mental stress and anxiety of the parents of intelectually challenged çhildren.
sandhya
July 16, 2021hello we have prepaid still don’t know how to check is it write or not
Sheetal bendre
August 26, 2021MSW (MASTER OF SOCIAL WORK)
MSWL-002 PROJECT IS AVAILABLE IN HINDI ?
Sheetal bendre
August 26, 2021MSWL-002 PROJECT IS AVAILABLE IN HINDI ?
Rumai Debbarma
October 16, 2021Can I get samples of MSW project
pauline
December 7, 2021Hey,
Do you have MSWL13 & MSWL14?
Thank you.
J B Tamang
February 8, 2022Can I get sample handbook of MSWP -001 in English
Diksha N
March 1, 2022I also want sample project ( 2021 batch) mswl 13 ,mswl 14 ,mswl 15,mswl 16.
Shivam
March 15, 2022Hi Do you have MSWL13 and 14.
Indranil Pal
September 22, 2022hello can i get msw filed journal sample format ?
Sandeep
April 19, 2023Project to be given in handwriting or computer print
syam
March 1, 2024CAN I GET MSW FIELDWORK REPORT IN ENGLISH?